Patrick Mahomes Suffers Torn ACL, Ending Chiefs Season and Playoff Streak

Patrick Mahomes is done for the season. The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback suffered a torn ACL in Sunday’s loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. The injury occurred on the final drive of the game. It ended both his year and the team’s playoff hopes.The Chiefs are now eliminated from postseason contention. This marks their first miss since 2014. The loss of their star player caps a difficult and disappointing season for the defending AFC West champions.

Injury Details and Immediate Aftermath

The injury happened on a hit from behind. Mahomes’ left knee buckled awkwardly as he planted to throw. He had to be helped directly to the locker room after the play. Team officials confirmed the ACL tear the following day.This is a devastating blow for the franchise. Mahomes had started every game for Kansas City since becoming the starter. His durability was a cornerstone of their success. ESPN and the Associated Press reported the severity of the diagnosis.The loss severs a remarkable personal streak for Mahomes. He had led the Chiefs to the playoffs in every season of his career. That run included five Super Bowl appearances and three championship victories.

A Stark Shift for Kansas City’s Future

The immediate focus shifts to Mahomes’ surgery and lengthy recovery. Rehabilitation from a major knee injury typically takes nine to twelve months. His status for the start of next season is now in serious doubt.This injury forces a sudden rebuild of the team’s offseason strategy. The front office must plan without its centerpiece. Questions about offensive line protection and backup quarterback depth become urgent.For the NFL, the playoffs will lack one of its biggest stars. The Chiefs’ absence reshapes the entire AFC landscape. Other contenders now see a clearer path without the perennial conference powerhouse.

Stephen A Smith Shuts Down Critics, Confirms NBA Countdown Exit Was His Choice

This confirmed ACL injury for Patrick Mahomes represents a pivotal moment for the Kansas City Chiefs. The organization faces an unfamiliar and challenging offseason without its leader. The road back to contention just became significantly longer.

Info at your fingertips

What is Patrick Mahomes’ injury?

Patrick Mahomes tore the ACL in his left knee. The injury occurred during the final drive of a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. It is a season-ending injury requiring surgery.

How long is Mahomes expected to be out?

Recovery from an ACL tear typically takes 9 to 12 months. This timeline puts his availability for the start of the 2026 NFL season in question. His return will depend on his rehabilitation progress.

Have the Chiefs been eliminated from the playoffs?

Yes. The loss to the Chargers officially eliminated Kansas City from playoff contention. This ends a streak of playoff appearances that dated back to the 2015 season.

Who will play quarterback for the Chiefs now?

Veteran backup Carson Wentz is expected to start for the remainder of the season. The team will likely evaluate all options at the position during the upcoming offseason.

Was Brittany Mahomes at the game?

Yes. Brittany Mahomes was in attendance at the game with the couple’s son, Bronze. She was seen in a custom white Chiefs outfit supporting her husband.